Please note that parcels weighing over 2kg may be sent via courier due to Royal Mail weight restrictions. Patient concordance and compliance with prescribed dermatology treatments is largely dependent on the cosmetic acceptability stretch marks, which are likely to be permanent, although they'll probably become less noticeable over time The Yellow Card Scheme allows you to report suspected side effects from any type of medicine you're taking. It's run by the medicines safety watchdog called the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

The most common side effect of topical corticosteroids is a burning or stinging sensation when the medicine is applied. However, this usually improves as your skin gets used to the treatment. If you’ve been using topical corticosteroids for a long time, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor to review your treatment. Reporting side effects Topical corticosteroids are a type of steroid medicine applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and irritation.A FTU (about 500mg) is the amount needed to squeeze a line from the tip of an adult finger to the first crease of the finger. It should be enough to treat an area of skin double the size of the flat of your hand with your fingers together. All emollients, with the exceptions of Zerodouble ®gel and WSP/LP (50:50), may be used as soap substitutes.Aqueous cream is

Be careful to make sure the skin cream does not get onto the fabric of armchairs or other furniture, cushions and blankets. Be aware that the cream can transfer from your skin onto the fabric of furniture when you are sitting or lying on it. Tell relatives and carers The medicine should only be applied to affected areas of skin. Gently smooth a thin layer onto your skin in the direction the hair grows. Wash your hands before and after you've applied the medicine, unless you are treating an area on your hands.

thinning of the skin, which can make the affected skin more vulnerable to damage; for example, you may bruise more easily Most topical corticosteroids are considered safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Your doctor will consider the area of skin where you need to use it, how often you'll use it and the condition of your skin. You should wash off any steroid cream applied to your breasts before feeding your baby. Corticosteroids should not be confused with anabolic steroids. Conditions treated with topical corticosteroids If you need any medical or dental treatment, show your steroid treatment card to the doctor, dentist or pharmacist so they know that you're using topical corticosteroids. Withdrawal side effects

Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, follow the directions on the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicine. This will give details of how much to apply and how often. Very potent topical corticosteroids are not usually prescribed for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for very young children. Sometimes you may be prescribed them under the supervision of a skincare specialist (dermatologist). How to use topical corticosteroids Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you normally smoke. They will be able to offer you help and advice to stop smoking. Further advice and resources If you're using both topical corticosteroids and emollients, wait 20 to 30 minutes between using them. Fingertip unitsChange and wash your clothes and bedding frequently to reduce the build-up of skin cream. However, remember that whilst washing your clothing and bedding even at high temperatures might reduce the build-up, it does not remove it completely and the danger may remain. Keep cream off furniture of the preparations concerned. The dermatology section of the formulary contains a full range of suitable products to meet the https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/emollients-new-information-about-risk-of-severe-and-fatal-burns-with-paraffin-containing-and-paraffin-free-emollients Topical corticosteroids cannot cure these conditions, but can help relieve the symptoms. Who can use topical corticosteroids https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/emollients-and-risk-of-severe-and-fatal-burns-new-resources-available